Meanwhile, M&S launches its first "green" store
Sainsbury’s may be planning to move to a greener office sometime (see story below), but Marks & Spencer’s eco-machine rolls on.
This weekend it launched its first ‘eco’ store, in Bournemouth. After its face-lift, the store will use up to 25% less energy (while switching to renewable energy for the rest) and a laundry list of other things:
# Use up to 25 per cent less energy than before the refit following the installation of new systems and equipment across lighting, refrigeration and heating and ventilation, including new lobby entrances to improve overall air tightness
# Be powered with green renewable energy, delivering a 92 per cent carbon dioxide saving
# Boast a number of water saving initiatives, including dual flush toilets and self-closing taps resulting in savings of up to 15 per cent of the average store’s water consumption
# Recycle and re-use up to 80 per cent of waste and key construction off cuts
# Use recycled and recyclable materials including recyclable plastic shelving
# Use of BREEAM A-rated materials with low or non-hazardous content and low energy processing within the specifications for ceilings and floor and wall coverings
# Provide staff with ‘eco-friendly’ uniforms including a fleece made from recycled plastic bottles
# Implement a ‘green’ travel plan for suppliers, staff and customers including a notice board to highlight green travel opportunities such as cycle and bus routes and secure cycle racks in the town. In addition, cycle racks for customers and staff will be introduced outside the store